Blueprint Detroit: CSI Metro Detroit Bi-Monthly - July/August 
Blueprint Detroit
On Tuesday, July 14, a group of 43 members and guests gathered at Detroit’s Fisher Building to explore the concourse and the 26th floor, where the Fisher brothers once had their offices—an immersive tour that brought the late 1920s vividly to life.
We were led by Detroit historian Jacob Jones, who shared the story of the Fisher Building as we moved through its corridors and office spaces. Along the way, we examined the building’s remarkable craftsmanship—its architectural details, artistic symbolism, and the industry-driven ambition that helped make it possible. Designed by Detroit’s Albert Kahn, the Fisher Building remains a powerful example of a landmark created for the people of Detroit.
A highlight of the tour was experiencing the building’s extraordinary sculptures, mosaics, and frescoes by artist Géza Maróti. As the Detroit Historical Society notes, “his works in the Fisher Building contain extensive symbolism focusing on two ideas: the wealth and power of the United States conveyed through commerce and transportation, and American culture and civilization imparted through music and drama.” Seeing these works up close—especially from the concourse overlooking the atrium, at eye level with the renowned Art Deco chandeliers—made that symbolism tangible.
One moment that especially stood out was Jacob’s observation about how Detroit’s businesses of that era financed, designed, and built monumental projects within the city—where today, so much is outsourced globally. It was a timely reminder of how deeply industry shaped people’s lives and how Detroit’s business community once stood as a world powerhouse.
Beyond dates and statistics, the tour offered a valuable example for today’s conversations about Detroit’s iconic buildings—and how they’ve been repurposed repeatedly to meet changing needs. Understanding how past challenges were addressed—successfully or not—helps us think more clearly about the choices facing our region today, and the opportunities and challenges that will shape how we adapt and thrive.
Special thanks to Jacob Jones for his expertise, and to everyone who joined us. To learn more about Jacob’s tours and offerings, visit www.jacobmjones.com.
Welcome New Members
Membership Moment
Welcome to new members who joined. Thank you for being part of the chapter. We also congratulate the following members on their anniversaries with CSI, we thank you for your continued support!
New Members since June 2026
Matthew Newcomer, Jones and Henry Engineers
Brad Bennett, MWA Commercial Roofing
Jared Imlay, MWA Commercial Roofing
1 year Anniversary (June-August)
Hussein Mokahal, The Led Lion
Dane Peterson, Student
Lauren Moon, WJE Associates
Neha Bono, Hennessey Engineers
Michael Brehemer, Lord Aeck Sargent
Asya Abudayya, Ghafari Associates
5 Year Anniversaries
David Ziemer, Michigan State University
10 year Anniversaries
Paul Sikora, ConTech Sales Group
20 Year Anniversaries
Donald Bauman, Albert Kahn Associates
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